Nissan’s president and chief executive, Carlos Ghosn, said: “This innovative partnership enhances Nissan’s investment in the game of soccer, which is a key platform to further strengthen our brand globally.”

The company said it had secured “unique rights packages” in each of CFG’s territories and a heavy presence at City’s Etihad Stadium.

For the last year City has busily set up new namesakes abroad, founding New York City FC in 2013 and buying out the team then known as Melbourne Heart in January this year.

Nissan has likewise launched on a sponsorship blitz, tying itself to the 2016 Olympic Games, the British and Mexican Olympic teams, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the USA’s college-level football championship.

Last year it became only the second company associated with the UEFA Champions League when it replaced Ford in what analysts read as an attempt to offset sluggish sales in Europe.

No word was given on whether Yaya Touré might receive a Nissan car for his next birthday